Mike Curato Books in Order

Small polka-dotted elephant Elliot finds city life difficult amid its crowds and towering buildings. Although little pleasures help him manage, a new friendship becomes the most valuable discovery of all when the obstacles around him seem too great.

When Mouse leaves for a family reunion, Elliot wanders the city and notices the many kinds of families around him. Feeling increasingly alone, the little elephant discovers that his own connections may offer the belonging he is missing.

Elliot and Mouse visit an amusement park hoping for a day of adventure. The rides prove frightening for the little elephant, until his friend finds a way to help him face his fears and enjoy their outing together.

Overwhelmed by the noise and crowds of their city, Elliot and Mouse decide to take a countryside holiday. Exploring autumn’s unfamiliar sights and smells gives the friends a quieter adventure and new pleasures they can enjoy in each other’s company.

Elliot cannot understand Christmas spirit, and even meeting Santa fails to help. When he and Mouse find a letter meant for Santa, their efforts to respond introduce a new friend and reveal the meaning of giving to others.

At summer camp before starting high school, Aiden Navarro struggles with bullying, friendship and feelings he cannot comfortably name. His growing attraction to another boy complicates an already difficult search for belonging and acceptance of himself.

Rabbit Tiny throws a party but cannot find best friend Bina Bear, despite several suspiciously bear-shaped objects nearby. As the search continues, Tiny recognizes that something is wrong and tries to understand what would make Bina more comfortable.

New to Seattle and hoping to reinvent himself, AJ befriends three other gay Asian men. Their chosen family helps him find belonging and love, until a violent attack tests the bonds they have built and their hopes for the future.